Homemade Reed Diffuser DIY

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Now, I’m not really crafty, but I’ve got a great DIY for you today. This homemade reed diffuser tutorial is so simple it’s basically foolproof! If you can add some liquid to a bottle then this is the DIY for you!

I have a small old bottle collection, and I wanted to use some of them in a practical way, rather than just have them gathering dust on a shelf. At the same time I was also looking for a way to freshen my bathroom without going down the chemical air freshener route because the smell of standard air fresheners and synthetic fragrances (especially the plug in ones) makes me feel sick, and I don’t like using essential oil burners because of having a small child in the house.

I came up with this idea for a homemade reed diffuser because it had the dual purpose of practically using my bottles, and it scents my bathroom in an environmentally friendly and natural way without the use of chemicals or synthetic fragrances. Win!

It worked so well I thought I’d share my technique, because I’m good like that! Here’s how you can make your own homemade reed diffuser for pennies, in minutes, and with only a few ingredients:

Homemade Reed Diffuser Notes

I bought my sweet almond oil, essential oils (rosemary and grapefruit) and reed sticks from eBay. I’ve got plenty left of each to make heaps of reed diffusers! The glass bottles were a gift from lovely online vintage store The Other Duckling. They have a really nice range of antique glass bottles which would be perfect for this DIY!

Use a bottle or jar with a narrow opening as the oil will evaporate at a slower rate than a jar with a wide opening.

If the smell starts to go a bit flat try taking the reed sticks out and placing them back in the liquid upside down.

The scent in this homemade reed diffuser isn’t as strong as its shop bought counterparts, so don’t expect a really strong fragrance. For that reason I find it best to place the diffuser in a small area, such as a bathroom, rather than trying to scent your living room.

Some people also swear by adding vodka to their diffuser as they say it helps the oils travel up the reeds. I didn’t have any vodka in the house so wasn’t able to try this. Let me know if you do!

I hope you enjoy making! The diffuser would make such a lovely homemade gift, so definitely one to keep in mind if you’re ever in need of any eco friendly gift ideas!

Alex Berry

What a fantastic idea – I’ve learned something new! I thought reed sticks were things that were only available to manufacturers; who knew you could make your own. Some of them are so expensive to buy – thanks Wendy!

Samantha

Ladies or gents,
I need help finding some kind of woodsy scents in essential oils. We have a cabin in northern Az. and I love using these. I usually buy them at Pier 1, but they can be very pricey. Any ideas? Thanks

Ananya Arsh

Hey I tried making this but my oil turned rancid in a week. I live in a really humid and hot place so is there any way to prevent the oils from turning rancid? I tried making it with safflower oil as the base, almond oil, and water too. But in all three I faced the same problem. I added a splash of vodka to it to help the oils wick up easily. Should I try isopropyl instead? And would adding a little vitamin e for a preservative help? But i don’t know how that would be. The reeds also turned black on the edges. Please help!﻿!

Sorry to hear this Ananya. I live in Scotland so don’t have a problem with heat or humidity. I would suggest using less reeds and perhaps using a slightly wider jar to allow a bit more air to circulate. I’m not sure what scent you’re using but you could also try using essential oils that have disinfectant properties – like lavender? Just an idea!

Janet

Arcie, not sure if you have already had a go at making your diffuser but you could try sandalwood oil, it has a slightly musky scent. I’m just about to make mine with Patchouli oil, I also use this as a perfume so have a large supply😀

Kate

Hi Wendy I love your homemade diffuser, just one question what size reeds did you use? The bottles I have are like the ones you used, my dad has been collecting them for years so I have plenty to choose from !
Thanks

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Hello

I'm Wendy and welcome to Moral Fibres, my green lifestyle blog. I believe that sustainable living should be hip, not hippie. If you do too then you'll love it here! In the blog you'll find all sorts of thrifty and easy hints and tips for living a greener life that won't compromise your sense of style.